Exclusive: William Hill to merge UK online and retail divisions
UK retail MD Nicola Frampton to depart as London-listed bookmaker readies to become “match fit” for 2021 push
William Hill will merge its UK online and retail divisions with effect from September 2020, EGR Intel can exclusively reveal.
As part of the restructuring process, Hills UK online MD Phil Walker will assume responsibility for the combined online and retail department in September.
William Hill said there would be some job losses resulting from the merging of the two departments but added that several new roles would also be created.
EGR can reveal Walker will continue to be based in Gibraltar but will regularly travel to meet his new teams based in the UK.
It is understood the change in operating model is partly due to the impact of Covid-19 on the William Hill business, but also about ensuring a strong recovery for the business in 2021.
William Hill UK MD Phil Walker
EGR can also reveal current UK retail MD Nicola Frampton will leave the FTSE 250 operator, ending a 10-year stint at William Hill. In addition to serving as UK MD for the last six years, Frampton has also served as head of internal audit and director of corporate risk.
William Hill CEO Ulrik Bengtsson paid tribute to Frampton, saying that it would be “immensely sad to say goodbye” to the Hills stalwart.
“Nicola has been with William Hill for 10 years and has been a driving force on the executive team as well as being instrumental in reshaping and transforming our retail business,” Bengtsson added.
As part of the transition process, Frampton will remain in a transitional role for the next six months to prepare Walker in assuming full responsibility for the combined department.
Addressing her forthcoming departure, Frampton said: “It has been an absolute privilege to lead the retail team at William Hill.
“Our shops play a vital role in our success and I look forward to working with Phil on a handover plan in the coming months.”
It has also been revealed Charlotte Emery, Hills’ global brand and marketing director, will join the executive team to head the newly created Brand Centre of Excellence.
The change in operating model will begin over the next few months, before concluding in the autumn as the business said it looks to become “match fit” for 2021.